UAB Promotes Alex Mortensen to Full-Time Head Coach

The University of Alabama-Birmingham (UAB) has announced the promotion of Alex Mortensen from interim head coach to full-time head coach of the Blazers football team. This decision follows a two-month search for a permanent replacement after the firing of former head coach Trent Dilfer on October 12, 2025. Mortensen, who took over the program mid-season, led the team to a 2-4 record, including a notable upset victory over then-No. 22 Memphis.

UAB working to hire Alex Mortensen as full-time head coachSon of late ESPN reporter lands head football coach jobAlex Mortensen, son of late ESPN NFL insider Chris Mortensen, reportedly now full-time UAB head coachHuntsville TimesREPORTS: UAB Football expected to promote interim Alex Mortensen to head coachCBS Sports

Alex Mortensen, 40, has a diverse coaching background, having served as UAB's offensive coordinator prior to his interim role. He joined UAB in 2023 after spending nine seasons under Nick Saban at the University of Alabama, where he held positions as a graduate assistant and offensive analyst. Mortensen's offensive strategies have significantly impacted UAB's performance, with the team averaging 421.3 yards per game over his first two seasons as coordinator, including a school-record 450.0 yards per game in his debut season.

REPORTS: UAB Football expected to promote interim Alex Mortensen to head coachHuntsville TimesUAB working to hire Alex Mortensen as full-time head coachCBS SportsAlex Mortensen, son of late ESPN NFL insider Chris Mortensen, reportedly now full-time UAB head coachSon of late ESPN reporter lands head football coach job

Mortensen's coaching career began in 2012 at New Mexico Highlands, and he has also worked as a quarterbacks coach for the St. Louis Rams and as the wide receivers coach for the Birmingham Iron in the Alliance of American Football.

Huntsville Times

Mortensen's tenure as interim coach was marked by challenges, including a violent incident involving players that required navigating significant emotional and logistical hurdles. Despite these difficulties, he managed to secure a season-ending victory against Tulsa, marking UAB's first road win in over two years.

UAB working to hire Alex Mortensen as full-time head coach

UAB officials expressed confidence in Mortensen's abilities, highlighting his familiarity with the program and his successful track record in developing players. Mortensen himself reflected on the significance of the recent win, stating, “This win will be one that ranks right up there near some of the best wins I’ve been a part of... after what we’ve been through this past week.”

UAB working to hire Alex Mortensen as full-time head coach

While Mortensen's promotion has been largely well-received, some critics have pointed to UAB's overall performance, noting that the team has struggled since joining the American Conference, with a record of 11-25 and no bowl appearances in three seasons. This context raises questions about the long-term viability of Mortensen's leadership.

CBS Sports

• “Whatever decision he makes, I’m going with, and wherever he goes, I go,” — Ryder Burton, UAB Quarterback

Huntsville Times

• “This win will be one that ranks right up there near some of the best wins I’ve been a part of,” — Alex Mortensen, UAB Head Coach

UAB working to hire Alex Mortensen as full-time head coach

As Alex Mortensen steps into his first full-time head coaching role, he faces the dual challenge of improving UAB's competitive standing while building on the momentum generated during his interim period. His ability to navigate these challenges will be critical for the future of the Blazers football program.

CBS Sports